Supporting innovation and navigating the constantly evolving effects of technology requires everyone working together within organizations and with partners across communities, from entrepreneurs and risk capitalists to leaders in corporate business, government and education.

At the first innovationIOWA panel discussion, our speakers will weigh in on what defines innovation, the strength of the network that makes innovation possible, and what changes to Iowa’s tech and innovation scene mean for the state’s future.

Ahead of the event, we asked our speakers to share an initiative — statewide, regional or local — that has helped Iowa businesses be innovative and why.

Event details: Tuesday, July 18 | 11 to 11:30 a.m. networking,
11:30 to 1 p.m. lunch and panel event | Des Moines Heritage Center

Register Here

Eric Engelmann, general partner, ISA Ventures

The last few years have seen a number of healthy changes in accelerator programs, which are key to filling the “top of the funnel.” New seed-stage venture funds and the state’s larger loan programs provide additional capital sources for the most critical phases of startup activity. In the next few years, we will see: 1. More venture funds raised. 2. New programs like venture studios that coalesce the talent, capital and resources into a single stack. 3. More investors across the state getting involved. All of these will help high-potential startups maximize their odds of success in Iowa.

Nancy Mwirotsi, executive director, Pi515

The John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Centers and programs like the Okoboji Entrepreneurship Institute play a crucial role in promoting innovation and supporting Iowa’s businesses and communities. Through entrepreneurial education, mentorship, networking and business support, the JPECs help cultivate a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem that fuels economic growth and drives innovation in Iowa. I hope that in the future, it can be expanded to tap into more youths and those who are not in college.

Lisa Shimkat, state director, America’s SBDC – Iowa

One initiative that is helping to bridge the gap on some of the innovation coming from our state is the Rural Business Innovators Program. It captures many of the best resources out there and flips the model to bring resources and opportunities to rural communities and entrepreneurs. Within our state, we are so fortunate to have an ecosystem that thrives on partnerships and building resources together as well as strengthening businesses from all sides. Using this program, the focus is on the next steps for the business and then helping them on their path. Through this, we can have a broader reach and build wealth in rural areas.

Ellen Willadsen, chief innovation officer/executive sponsor, Holmes Murphy/BrokerTech Ventures

Iowa has attracted a number of quality accelerator programs. These initiatives have enhanced innovation in industries that are critical to Iowa’s growth. Holmes Murphy has been closest to two that support the insurance industry — the BrokerTech Ventures Accelerator and the Global Insurance Accelerator. The BTV Accelerator brings together the most innovative startups, provides them with seed funding, and helps them connect to a broad network of insurance brokers, carriers and wholesalers.

Iowa-based companies that are graduates of the BTV program include Goldfinch Health, which provides surgery and recovery navigation; MakuSafe, which is focused on worker health and safety; and ChalkBites, a special learning company in the Metaverse.

Diana Wright, startup community builder at the Greater Des Moines Partnership

What could help: Corporate engagement with startups and the entrepreneurial community has room to be amplified.

As someone who is in the unique position at the Partnership to be connected to what are both strong networks separately, I’d love to see the crossover happen more frequently, whether it be formally or serendipitous. We know corporate partnerships can be a win for startups looking to get access to industry channels, first customers, investments and expert mentors as entrepreneurs build a business. However, there are misconnections, too, through a lack of shared goals, prioritization of industry challenges, or the mirage of what innovation is and what is a problem to be solved. Many existing businesses know that industries and business models are changing but don’t yet understand how startups fit into their business journey.

I’d love to explore solutions with business leaders interested in the convergence of startups and corporates solving tomorrow’s problems together.